DEDICATED volunteers providing a life-saving service have been praised by North Wales Police Chief Constable Richard Brunstrom.

North East Wales Search and Rescue (NEWSAR) has gained an enviable reputation for their expertise in tracking down missing people .

Team leader Ian Ashcroft, of Mold, said the group is very proud to receive the commendation and feel it’s a credit to all members they have been recognised in this way.

The commendation was given for NEWSAR’s ‘much valued support to North Wales Police in continued voluntary service, both past and present, in rescuing and searching for persons in distress on the mountains and other parts of North Wales and in so doing, often exposing themselves to risk and danger for the benefit of the community for no reward other than the satisfaction derived from helping others.’

NEWSAR is based at Loggerheads and runs two Landrovers which are fully kitted out with search, rescue and first aid equipment.

The team is self-financing and relies on fund-raising efforts by members.